Private, large Tantalus estate

By Melissa Chang

Published: 2012.10.04 10:40 AM

Photos courtesy of Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties

I was lucky to catch a special broker’s open for this new listing on Tantalus Drive recently, as the home will not be open to the public for any other showings. It’s already got the allure of old Hawaii, having been built in 1928 and only three owners during that time.

The Alexander family (who played a big part in Hawaii’s modern history) originally owned the home. The current owner is designer Jonathan Staub of Philpotts & Associates, the renowned interior design firm. Staub, who is famous in his own right, has updated the home while keeping its integrity and charm of a bygone era. (Click here for more photos.)

It’s just off the main road, but is very private due to a long, gated driveway. Since it’s so secluded, it’s perfect for people who want privacy but don’t want to be too far from the action in town. But the estate’s size and the home’s layout makes it perfect for large parties.

While the two-story residence is 2,976 square feet, the estate itself is about three acres, since most of the lush grounds are preservation land. When you stand on the back porch facing west, it’s kind of cool to watch the parrots flutter from tree to tree in your own private forest, while you have a view of bustling metro Honolulu in the distance.

On the east side of the house, the sloping garden has been landscaped and has a spot for taking in the view of Diamond Head. You can also just gaze at this same view from the sunroom inside.

There are three bedrooms upstairs, an art room/studio/guest quarters under the home and a cottage attached to the garage. (Click here for more information.)

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About Our Writer

Rachel Ross is a Realtor at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hawai‘i Realty. Raised in Hawai‘i Kai, she previously worked in public relations and marketing where she assisted some of O‘ahu’s biggest community developers, educators and businesses. She loves connecting people and says that real estate is a form of matchmaking. She is mom to three teenagers and an avid runner, and notes that the hour each day of pavement-pounding is the only teen-angst-free peace and quiet she gets all day. rachelr@bhhshawaii.com